TEXES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test

Which skill is crucial to developing students' emergent literacy?

1. Being able to read silently

2. Identifying the main idea of a text

3. Understanding the parts of a book and how to read it

4. Writing their own stories independently

The correct answer is: Understanding the parts of a book and how to read it

The ability to understand the parts of a book and how to read it is essential for developing students' emergent literacy. This skill lays the groundwork for proficient reading by helping students recognize the structure of texts, such as covers, titles, and illustrations, as well as the concept of print, which includes the directionality of reading (left to right) and the understanding that words are separate units. Emergent literacy encompasses the skills and knowledge that precede conventional literacy, and understanding the components of a book is foundational. When students grasp how books are organized and the function of various elements, they become more engaged and can more easily navigate written texts. This understanding enables them to make connections between the text and their own experiences, fostering a love of reading and motivating them to explore stories in greater depth. In contrast, skills like silent reading or identifying the main idea require a more advanced level of reading comprehension. While writing their own stories is beneficial for literacy development, it assumes a level of understanding and practice that may not yet be present in emergent readers. Thus, understanding the parts of a book and how to read it is pivotal in nurturing early literacy skills that prepare students for more complex reading tasks.